Indy 500 National Anthem Singer Announced

INDIANAPOLIS – Grammy Award-winning contemporary Christian music superstar Sandi Patty will come back home to Indiana to sing the national anthem before the 97th Indianapolis 500 on Sunday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

This will be the sixth time Patty will sing “The Star Spangled Banner” before the world’s most prestigious auto race, more than any other individual performer. Patty, a former longtime resident of Anderson, Ind., previously sang the national anthem in 1987, 1988, 1990, 1991 and 1992.

“It is my honor to sing the national anthem again at this year’s Indianapolis 500,” Patty said. “I am proud to have called Indiana my home for so long, and it’s a privilege to be a part of this event, so rich in history and tradition, that showcases Indianapolis as one of the best cities in the world. To be ‘back home again in Indiana’ during the greatest spectacle in sports will be such a thrill for me.”

Patty is the most awarded female vocalist in contemporary Christian music history, with five Grammy Awards, four Billboard Music Awards and 40 Dove Awards during her illustrious 30-year career. She has sold more than 11 million records, with three certified platinum and five certified gold, earning her the name “The Voice.” Her upcoming full-length album will be released exclusively at Target stores beginning in August 2013, through Mood Entertainment.

Her rendition of the national anthem has become synonymous with patriotic celebration since she performed “The Star Spangled Banner” during the rededication of the Statue of Liberty in 1986.

“Sandi Patty is a Hoosier and national musical treasure, and we’re thrilled to welcome her back home to Indiana to sing the national anthem,” said Doug Boles, Indianapolis Motor Speedway chief operating officer. “Her majestic voice will fill the crowd with pride and patriotism just moments before the engines are fired at the 97th Indianapolis 500.”